As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, residents of Dubai are gearing up to celebrate Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, March 30, 2025. This significant occasion marks the end of fasting and is one of the most important religious and social events in the Islamic calendar. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai has announced its official working hours during the holiday, ensuring that essential services remain available to the public.
The official holiday will commence on March 30 and will continue until Wednesday, April 2, when regular working hours will resume. During this period, the Customer Happiness Center located at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3 (Arrivals Hall) will operate 24/7, facilitating transactions for travelers and residents alike. Meanwhile, the Customer Happiness Center in Al Aweer will be open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, providing vital services without interruption.
In light of the holiday, GDRFA encourages all customers to utilize digital channels for their transactions, promoting ease and efficiency. Transactions can be completed through their official website, www.gdrfad.gov.ae, the GDRFA DXB application, or the Dubai Now app. Additionally, the public can reach out to the "Amer" call center at the toll-free number 8005111, which is available around the clock for inquiries and assistance.
On a celebratory note, Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the representative of the Ruler in the Al Ain region, extended heartfelt congratulations to the UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, his deputies, and the rulers of the Emirates on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. He expressed his wishes for health and prosperity for all, emphasizing the values of brotherhood, compassion, and community solidarity that define the UAE.
Sheikh Hazza remarked, "In this blessed occasion, the values of fraternity, compassion, and community solidarity are embodied, which the UAE is built upon thanks to the vision of its wise leadership. The spirit of love, peace, and human brotherhood among all people is firmly established."
As the day approaches, many residents are also preparing for the Eid prayer, which is set to take place shortly after sunrise, approximately 15 to 20 minutes later, around 6:20 AM. The official date of Eid is contingent upon the sighting of the crescent moon, which will be confirmed by authorities after sunset on the 29th of Ramadan.
Dubai boasts numerous mosques and prayer sites that will accommodate worshippers for the Eid prayer. Notable locations include the Grand Mosque, situated in Bur Dubai near the Dubai Museum, which is one of the largest mosques in the city. Another significant site is the Al-Farooq Omar bin Al-Khattab Mosque, renowned for its Ottoman-inspired architecture, located in the Al Safa area.
Additionally, the Rahim Mosque in Dubai Marina is the sole mosque in that area, attracting many local residents. While the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, it remains a popular destination for many visitors during the Eid celebrations.
The atmosphere in Dubai during Eid al-Fitr is typically one of joy and festivity, with families coming together to celebrate, share meals, and exchange gifts. The holiday is not only a time for religious observance but also for reinforcing community bonds and promoting goodwill among residents.
As the UAE prepares for this significant occasion, the GDRFA extends its warmest wishes to the leadership, citizens, and residents, hoping for a blessed Eid filled with health, happiness, and prosperity. The administration's commitment to ensuring uninterrupted services during the holiday reflects its dedication to the well-being of the community.
In summary, Eid al-Fitr in Dubai promises to be a momentous occasion, marked by spiritual reflection, community engagement, and the celebration of shared values. With official services in place and a variety of activities planned, residents can look forward to a fulfilling and joyous holiday.
